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In his own words: A silver lining for Elmira Notre Dame grad after losing out on NCAAs

Elmira Notre Dame graduate Ty Kunzman is a graduating senior at Clinton's Hamilton College, where he is a history major. He is wrapping up his final semester through online courses, with Hamilton's graduation ceremony postponed until further notice. Kunzman was a three-time All-Atlantic Regional selection at Hamilton and the Atlantic Region champion in the weight throw in 2018 and 2019. He has held Hamilton's record in the event since the 2017-18 season. The Spencer native was a day away from competing in the weight throw at the NCAA Division III Indoor Track & Field Championships in March when that event and every other NCAA championship was canceled because of the coronavirus crisis. He shares his thoughts on his career at Hamilton, the people who have touched his life, what's ahead for him and how the coronavirus pandemic has impacted him and others.

In reflecting on the four years I spent competing at Hamilton College, it is hard to define my favorite athletic experience/memory. Whether practicing or competing, placing or “losing,” I enjoyed every second of it.

Hamilton College senior Ty Kunzman is a graduate of Elmira Notre Dame.(Photo: Provided by Hamilton College)

The bonds and subsequent friendships I have established with my teammates, opponents and coaches — as well as the support I have received from my parents, sisters, other family members, and friends — has defined my undergraduate athletic experience.

Teammates: From spotting me in the weight room to going to great lengths to cheer me on (literally throwing circles are on average a half mile away from everyone else), my teammates were always supportive. On my best days, when I placed or broke a record, my teammates were there cheering me on. On my worst days, when I felt that I had underperformed or was unable to compete due to an injury, my teammates were there cheering me up.

Opponents: Throwing events are unique as opponents are both competitive and supportive. During my collegiate competitions, throwers eagerly encouraged each other, congratulated one another on new PRs (personal records) and offered helpful advice. After every competition, it was common practice to “shake hands” and talk of upcoming meets. As a result of this positive atmosphere, I was able to thrive competitively and find pride in my performance regardless of my finish.

Coaches: Building on the lessons from my high school coaches — Gary Hunter (Ithaca High School) and Chris Wise (Elmira Notre Dame) — Hamilton’s throwing coach, Jake Tyksinski, and head coach, Brett Hull, made my collegiate throwing career as successful as it was.

Coach Jake dedicated countless hours to organizing/coaching practices, traveling to meets, analyzing film, designing event specific lifting programs, and teaching me everything I know about the weight and hammer throws. He also served as a great mentor, stressing the importance of being a good person rather than a great athlete, and he is a great friend, offering advice and support during challenging times. Coach Hull encouraged me to perform to the best of my ability athletically and academically; reined in my, at times, overzealous personality and competitive nature; and also provided me with friendship and mentorship.

Parents: My parents, Randy and Heidi Kunzman, have been unbelievably supportive of every aspect of my undergraduate athletic career. They attended nearly every meet I competed in and qualified for, traveling all over the Northeast; accommodated my extensive training and dietary needs when I was home for breaks; and always helped me to keep things in perspective.

With the recent cancellation of collegiate athletics due to COVID-19, my athletic career at Hamilton College came to an abrupt end. Having qualified for the 2019-2020 NCAA Division III Indoor Track and Field National Championship meet, I was in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, (the location of Indoor Nationals) when I was notified of the NCAA’s decision to cancel indoor and outdoor championships.

News of the NCAA’s decision was very tough to hear, especially since I missed 2018-2019 Indoor Nationals in my event by 1 centimeter. However, I firmly believe the NCAA made the right decision given the circumstances.

I also realize I am blessed in ways many of my peers, unfortunately, are not: I have additional seasons of NCAA eligibility (one indoor season and two outdoor seasons) and will be continuing my throwing career as a graduate school athlete at the University of Virginia. I am very thankful for the opportunity to compete again.

For those who will not be able to compete again as collegiate athletes, I would like to say I am truly sorry. I recognize the energy, time and commitment you have given to your respective programs. Know that those of us who have the opportunity to compete again do not take it for granted.